3-Day Christmas Holiday Experience in Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia

3 days

Advent in Zagreb
Christmas Advent
Scenic view at upper town square
Advent in Zagreb sign on pavilion in Zrinjevac park
Zrinjevac Fountain decorated by Christmas lights as part of Advent in Zagreb. Fountain is known as The Mushroom.

About Zagreb, Croatia

Discover the charm of Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia. This city is a blend of rich history and modern living, offering a unique European experience. Explore the medieval Upper Town with its iconic St. Mark's Church, or stroll through the bustling streets of the Lower Town, filled with museums, galleries, and cafes. Visit the stunning Zagreb Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia. Enjoy the local cuisine at Dolac Market, the city's most visited farmers market. Don't miss the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky testament to love stories that ended. Zagreb's parks and outdoor spaces, like the beautiful Lake Jarun, provide a breath of fresh air. With its blend of art, history, and lively street culture, Zagreb is a captivating destination.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Landmarks and Christmas Market

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Zagreb Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Its towering spires are a sight to behold, especially during the Christmas season when it's beautifully lit up.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Croatian lunch in the bustling Dolac Market, where you can find a variety of local delicacies.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Museum of Broken Relationships. This unique museum offers a compelling exploration of love and loss, with exhibits donated from people all over the world.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in some hearty Croatian cuisine in one of the restaurants in the Upper Town, which is known for its excellent food scene.

Evening

End your day by exploring the Christmas Market in Ban Jelacic Square, where you can enjoy mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and a variety of festive treats.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Mirogoj Cemetery, a serene and beautiful place that's considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the eateries in the Lower Town, where you can try some more traditional Croatian dishes.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Croatian Museum of Naive Art, which houses an impressive collection of works by self-taught artists.

Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner in the vibrant Tkalciceva Street, known for its array of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.

Evening

After dinner, head to the Zrinjevac Park, where you can enjoy the Christmas lights and decorations, as well as live music performances.

Morning

On your final day, visit the St. Mark's Church, famous for its colorful tiled roof depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb and Triune Kingdom.

Lunch

Have lunch in the bustling Ilica Street, where you can find a variety of eateries serving delicious food.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Zagreb City Museum, which offers an interesting insight into the history and culture of the city.

Dinner

For your final dinner, head to the Radiceva Street, known for its great selection of restaurants.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Advent on European Square, where you can enjoy the festive atmosphere, live music, and a variety of food and drink stalls.

Attractions in Itinerary (11)

Zagreb Cathedral

1
Zagreb Cathedral

The Zagreb Cathedral on Kaptol is a Roman Catholic institution and the tallest building in Croatia. It's also one of the most valuable monuments of the Zagreb cultural heritage.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Dolac Market

2
Dolac Market

The most visited and the best known farmer's market in Zagreb, well known for its combination of traditional open market with stalls and a sheltered market below.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Museum of Broken Relationships

3
Museum of Broken Relationships

A unique museum that houses a collection of personal items from failed relationships, accompanied by brief descriptions.

Attractions
Museums
Ban Jelacic Square

4
Ban Jelacic Square

The square has been the city's commercial and social center since 1641. It is home to many of Zagreb's most significant landmarks including the Ban Jelacic Monument and Mandusevac Fountain.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Mirogoj Cemetery

5
Mirogoj Cemetery

The Mirogoj Cemetery is a cemetery park that is considered to be among the more noteworthy landmarks in the City of Zagreb. The cemetery inters members of all religious groups: Catholic, Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Protestant, Latter Day Saints; irreligious graves can all be found.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Croatian Museum of Naive Art

6
Croatian Museum of Naive Art

The Croatian Museum of Naive Art is a fine art museum dedicated to the work of naïve artists of the 20th century. The museum holds more than 1,900 works of art - paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints, mainly by Croatians but also by other well-known international artists in the genre.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Artifacts
Zrinjevac Park

7
Zrinjevac Park

A beautiful park in the city center, known for its fountains, busts of notable people, and events during the Christmas season.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
St. Mark's Church

8
St. Mark's Church

St. Mark's Church is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb, located on St. Mark's Square. It's known for its colorful tiled roof.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Ilica Street

9
Ilica Street

One of the longest and busiest shopping streets in Zagreb, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Attractions
Shopping
Neighborhoods
Zagreb City Museum

10
Zagreb City Museum

This museum presents the history of Zagreb from prehistoric times to the present day.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
European Square

11
European Square

European Square is a popular gathering spot in Zagreb, known for its vibrant atmosphere. It hosts various cultural events, art installations, and food and drink stalls.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Strukli

Strukli

A traditional dish from the Zagreb region, Strukli is a pastry filled with cottage cheese, sour cream, and eggs, often served as a starter or a main course.

Kulen

Kulen

Kulen is a type of flavored sausage made of minced pork that is traditionally produced in Croatia. It's a popular appetizer in Zagreb.

Čobanac

Čobanac is a traditional Croatian stew made from several types of meat and lots of hot paprika. It's a hearty dish popular in Zagreb.

Sarma

Sarma is a traditional Croatian dish made of minced meat and rice wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. It's a staple dish in Zagreb, especially during winter.

Peka

Peka is a traditional Croatian way of preparing food. The ingredients are placed into a large pot which is then put into a fireplace. It's a popular cooking method in Zagreb.

Rakija

Rakija

Rakija is a popular Croatian brandy that comes in many flavors. It's a traditional drink in Zagreb, often served as an aperitif.

Gemist

Gemist is a refreshing Croatian drink made by mixing white wine and sparkling water. It's a popular choice in Zagreb during hot summer days.

Krafne

Krafne

Krafne are Croatian doughnuts filled with jam, chocolate, or cream. They are a popular sweet treat in Zagreb.

Medovaca

Medovaca is a Croatian honey liqueur. It's a traditional drink in Zagreb, often enjoyed as a digestif after meals.

Palacinke

Palacinke

Palacinke are Croatian pancakes, often filled with jam, chocolate, or nuts. They are a popular dessert in Zagreb.

Purica s mlincima

Purica s mlincima is a traditional Zagreb dish consisting of roasted turkey with a special type of baked flatbread called 'mlinci'.

Varivo

Varivo is a type of Croatian vegetable stew, often made with beans, potatoes, and carrots. It's a popular comfort food in Zagreb.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Zagreb, Croatia is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. The summer months (July and August) can also be a good time if you don't mind the heat and a bit more tourists. These months also host a variety of festivals and outdoor events. However, if you're interested in skiing, then winter (December to February) would be the best time for you.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 30

Thu

Statehood Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

June 22

Sat

Day of Antifascist Struggle

August 5

Mon

Victory Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 18

Mon

Remembrance Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Zagreb's tram network is extensive, operating 24 hours a day. It's a convenient way to get around the city, with frequent services during the day. Night trams operate from midnight to 4am.

Buses are also a popular mode of transport in Zagreb, especially for reaching areas not covered by the tram network. The bus station is centrally located and services run frequently.

Taxis are readily available throughout Zagreb. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or through a taxi app. They offer a convenient, though more expensive, mode of transport.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Zagreb. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group. You'll need to download the app and have internet access to use this service.

Zagreb is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day, and it's a great way to see the city at your own pace.

Many of Zagreb's main attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a great way to explore and get a feel for the city.

Renting a car is an option if you're comfortable driving in a foreign country. It provides the most flexibility, but keep in mind that parking can be difficult in the city center.

The Zagreb Funicular is one of the city's most iconic forms of transport. It connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town and offers great views of the city. It's also the shortest funicular ride in the world!

The main train station, Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor, is centrally located and connects Zagreb to other Croatian cities and international destinations. It's a good option if you're planning to travel outside of the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Zagreb, Croatia as a first time visitor

1

Zagreb is the capital and the largest city of Croatia.

2

The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken especially among the younger generation and in tourist areas.

3

The official currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Zagreb has a moderate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (20°C to 32°C), while winter temperatures can drop to 32°F to 45°F (0°C to 7°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Croatia. It's common to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes.

6

Zagreb is generally safe for tourists, but like in any major city, it's important to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

7

Public transportation in Zagreb is reliable and efficient. It includes trams, buses, and a funicular. Tickets must be validated upon entering the vehicle.

8

Taxis and Uber are also available in Zagreb. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

9

Zagreb's tap water is safe to drink.

10

Smoking is banned in public places in Croatia, including bars and restaurants.

11

Croatia is part of the European Union, but it's not part of the Schengen Area. This means you may need a visa to visit, depending on your nationality.

12

Zagreb is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is GMT +1.

13

The city has a rich history and culture, with many museums, galleries, and theaters.

14

Traditional Croatian cuisine is diverse and hearty, with influences from neighboring countries. Be sure to try local dishes like 'strukli' and 'cevapi'.

15

Zagreb has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

16

The city is known for its outdoor markets, the most famous of which is Dolac Market.

17

Zagreb is a walkable city, but it's also quite hilly. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

18

Croatians are generally friendly and hospitable. Don't hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.

19

The city has a mix of architecture from different periods, from medieval to modern.

20

Zagreb has a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Zagreb Film Festival and Advent in Zagreb.

Basic Croatian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bok

bawk

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Doviđenja

doh-vee-jen-ya

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Molim

moh-leem

Making a request

Thank you

Hvala

hvah-la

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Da

dah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ne

neh

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Oprostite

oh-proh-stee-teh

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Žao mi je

zhao mee yeh

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Govorite li engleski?

goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Ne razumijem

neh rah-zoo-mee-yem

Not understanding something

Where is the bathroom?

Gdje je WC?

gdye yeh vee-cee

Asking for directions

How much does this cost?

Koliko ovo košta?

ko-lee-ko oh-vo kosh-tah

Asking the price of something

Can I have the menu, please?

Mogu li dobiti jelovnik, molim?

moh-goo lee doh-bee-tee ye-lov-neek, moh-leem

At a restaurant

I would like...

Želio bih...

zhe-lee-oh bee

Making a request

Water

Voda

voh-dah

Ordering a drink

Beer

Pivo

pee-voh

Ordering a drink

Wine

Vino

vee-no

Ordering a drink

Help!

Pomoć!

poh-mohch

In an emergency

Call the police!

Pozovite policiju!

poh-zoh-vee-teh po-lee-see-yoo

In an emergency

Good night

Laku noć

lah-koo notch

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit (if planning to swim)

  • Hat/Cap for sun protection

  • Scarf (for cooler evenings)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Local currency (Croatian Kuna)

  • Credit/Debit cards

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Zip-lock bags for organization

Weather Conditions

When visiting Zagreb, Croatia, it's important to be aware of the city's continental climate, which means it experiences hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun. However, do remember that summer evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket or sweater might come in handy. In contrast, winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping to 32°F (0°C) or below. Snowfall is common during this time, so if you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Waterproof shoes are also a good idea as the streets can become slushy. Spring and autumn are generally mild, but the weather can be unpredictable. It's best to pack layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures. Rain is more frequent during these seasons, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or a raincoat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Zagreb, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for possible snowfall.

February

7° / -2°

February is still quite cold, with a slight increase in temperature. Snow is less likely, but still possible.

March

11° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

April

17° / 5°

April is a pleasant month to visit Zagreb, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, there can be occasional rain showers.

May

21° / 9°

May is a beautiful month to visit Zagreb, with warm temperatures and long, sunny days. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

June

24° / 12°

June is the start of the summer season in Zagreb, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.

July

26° / 14°

July is the hottest month in Zagreb, with temperatures often exceeding 25 degrees. It's a great time for swimming and sunbathing.

August

26° / 14°

August is another hot month in Zagreb, with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

September

22° / 10°

September is a pleasant month in Zagreb, with mild temperatures and less crowds. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter holiday.

October

16° / 6°

October sees the start of autumn in Zagreb, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the countryside.

November

10° / 2°

November is a cool month in Zagreb, with temperatures dropping and more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December

5° / -1°

December is a cold month in Zagreb, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy Christmas markets and festive decorations.

Did you know?

Did you know that Zagreb is the capital and the largest city of Croatia, with a population of over 800,000 people?

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